Prisoner stand-off in Mountjoy

Up to 50 prisoners have barricaded themselves into the recreation area in the D wing of Mountjoy prison in Dublin.

It is understood that the inmates forced prison officers to withdraw from the basement following a disturbance in the afternoon.

A spokesperson for the Irish Prison Officer’s Association says the inmates threw snooker balls and tables at staff.

He also says there are reports that the prisoners have broken into the workshop area of the prison and may have armed themselves.

Staff at the prison are on alert and senior management is said to be trying to negotiate with the prisoners involved.

Gardaí say they are aware of the situation.

The IPOA says the cause of the stand-off is unknown at this stage but that overcrowding may be a reason.